Car Rental in South Africa

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Hire cars in South Africa are quick, easy, in-expensive (by comparison to some other countries) and are the very best way to see this exciting and diverse country.

South Africa has unfortunately lagged behind many developed countries when it comes to public transport, and although there are many tours available for visitors, car rental in South Africa offers the very best way to explore top scenic drives and make the most of your holiday or business trip.

Where to pick up your hire car in South Africa

Most visitors arriving in South Africa pick up their hire car at their arrival airport, but you can also collect a car at the down-town office in most cities.

You can expect to find all the big names in car hire represented here including Budget, Thrifty, Europcar, Avis and Hertz rent a car, as well as several reputable local South African rental car companies.

If you are very  fussy about getting a particular class of car or are in a hurry to get going, it is advisable to book in advance, but shopping around on arrival can sometimes get you a really good deal.

Tips and Hints for car rentals in South Africa

You have to have a valid Drivers’ License to be eligible for car hire in South Africa; however, you do not need an International License – the License issued in your home country is fine, provided it bears your photograph.

We drive on the left here! Checkout the local road rules so you don’t do something crazy either!

Your rental car in South Africa will be a right-hand drive vehicle to make this transition easier!

All distances and speed limits are in kilometres.

Be sure to adhere to the speed limits on all roads to avoid hefty fines and never drink and drive – the max you can drink and still be ok to drive is just one beer or  glass of wine.

If you are caught driving under the influence you will be arrested and spend the night in prison.

South African roads are generally excellent, but this comes at a price and there are many Toll roads on long-distance routes between major cities.

Make sure you have cash to pay the Tolls – most only accept cash and South African issued credit cards.  Debit cards are not accepted.

One-way drop offs:  if your pick up your hire car at one destination and plan to drop it off at another you will be required to pay a considerable one-way drop-off fee;  check this with your car rental company when you book to avoid an unpleasant shock.